Osceola County Historical Society Blog

Toe tapping and finger snapping aren’t usually something you’d do at an exhibit opening, unless that opening is about music, or in our case, the bands of Osceola County. At the opening reception we welcomed former band director, Larry O’Grady, who spoke about his days at Denn John and Osceola High School. The reception guests were also treated to a performance by a few of the members of OHS drum line.

While segregation was a major issue in many places, the tensions between blacks and whites in Osceola County were much less. There weren’t as many restrictions in place, making integration much smoother for the county. Blacks and whites lived close to each other, and in some cases, even worked together. One place in particular that did not discriminate with employees was the Disston Sugar Mill.

Most hear the phrase "marching band" and automatically associate it with high schools. However, the roots of marching bands are actually in military bands. Even today, high school marching bands bear a strong resemblance to the military bands of the past with their brightly colored uniforms and the plumes in their hats. Another contributing factor to high school bands is local town bands. Towns often had bands with musicians of varying ages. When the popularity of such bands began to dwindle, many of the younger participants could consider joining a school band.

Field Trips are a great way for students to experience their lessons with immersive encounters of the subject of study. Living History field trips sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture and Duke Energy are an excellent example of these encounters. Students are transported to the 1880s-1890s at the Pioneer Village at Shingle Creek, where docents, dressed in period costume, guide students through Osceola County’s past.

When one thinks of Florida the orange is certainly one of the first things to cross your mind. They make a great snack, a delicious beverage, and for 16 Art in the Archives participants they are a colorful addition to their art collection. The evening began in the Buster Kenton room with nibbles and libations to get the creative juices flowing.

The life of the Florida cowboy is not an easy one. If he isn’t battling the heat, the hurricanes, or the mosquitos; then he probably has to contend with wild animals, swamps, and the monumental task of managing a herd of cattle. Florida cowboys are tough and hard-working because nothing comes easy on the ranch. Despite it being so arduous, many view the cowboy’s life as inspirational and something to be celebrated. One such man was E.L. “Buster” Kenton.

The Osceola County Welcome Center and History Museum located at 4155 W. Vine St. Kissimmee, FL 34741 is a stop you must make! The hours of operation are from 9:00AM to 5:00PM, 7 days a week. The Osceola County Welcome Center and Welcome Center is closed on major holidays and the admission is FREE.

The Osceola County Welcome Center and History Museum was created in partnership with the Osceola County and the Osceola County Historical Society to teach locals and visitors about the county’s rich history.

The center is comprised of 4 realistic dioramas showcasing different habitats that you could encounter while in Osceola County: swamplands, pine flatwoods, oak hammock, and lakefront. Each exhibit features an interactive display and a scavenger hunt. If you are looking for a unique experience and are yearning to learn more about Osceola County this is the place to come!

If you are wondering why you should stop by to see us at the Welcome Center and History Museum, here are a few reasons: